Unfortunately the news comes a little late for the Macworld team. We have already replaced the Seagate hard drives in our 1TB iMacs since the hard drives died some months back. (We have checked the serial numbers and our iMacs would have qualified for the program.)

Detailing the replacement program, Apple writes that it has determined that "certain Seagate 1TB hard drives used in 21.5-inch and 27-inch iMac systems may fail. These systems were sold between October 2009 and July 2011."

Apple first recognized the issue with the Seagate hard drives back in July 2011, but at that time it only included iMacs purchased between May 2011 and July 2011, notes MacRumors.

The original program was originally valid for one year, scheduled to expire 23 July, 2012, but the company has now extended the program until 12 April, 2013.

On the webpage detailing the hard drive replacement program Apple claims that "Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP) will replace affected hard drives free of charge."

Since we have already replaced affected hard drives we may be legible for a refund. Apple says: "If you believe you have paid for a repair or replacement due to this issue, contact Apple regarding a refund."

To find out if your iMac qualifies for the replacement program, visit this page and add your serial number (Which you can find in About the Mac).